Video: Bringing a Mercedes F1 car to life

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As everyone counts down the days to the start of the new season, teams are already in overdrive preparing for the epic moment when their new designs will hit the track.

Crews are busy assembling, fine-tuning, configuring every single component and part of their 2017 challenger down to the last rivet, screw, nut and bold.

Mercedes AMG F1 has produced a short video explaining the feeling which prevails on the factory floor when a car is fired up for the first time.

The first landmark of a new season, it's a moment that can catch you out – and one where you have to expect the unexpected. But it’s also something incredibly special for everyone involved…

Check it out below.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.